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Wes Montgomery Live in Naptown
February 18, 2024
Celebrate Wes Bound: The Genius of Wes Montgomery by listening to classic recordings of Wes Montgomery's performances in Indianapolis. And hear from Indianapolis musicians who performed with Wes, including Phil Ranelin, Everett Greene, Wanda Stafford, Jimmy Gilford and Johnny Shacklett.
Thurston Harris – Indianapolis' first rock and roll star
February 11, 2024
On this week’s show, we’ll explore the music of Thurston Harris, Indianapolis’ first rock and roll star. He’s best known for his recording of “Little Bitty Pretty One,” a Top 10 hit in 1957.
Naptown Gospel Classics
February 4, 2024
Classic Naptown gospel music, featuring rare recordings from the quartets, choirs, and songwriters that made history in the Circle City. Plus, interviews with Indianapolis gospel artists M.L. Allen, Reggie Gammon, Reverend Dennis Freeman, Henry Hinch, Everett Greene, and more.
The Ink Spots' influence on rock and roll
January 28, 2024
Explore the Ink Spots’ influence on rock and roll. The only Indianapolis act to be inducted into the Rock and Hall of Fame, the Ink Spots remain one of the most influential acts to emerge from the Avenue.
Les McCann and Leroy Vinnegar
January 21, 2024
We’re celebrating the life and music of Les McCann by listening to his work with the Indianapolis bass player Leroy Vinnegar.
Best of 2023 - Part 2
January 14, 2024
Part two of our look back at some of our favorite music and interviews of 2023. Indianapolis music legends Rodney Stepp and Allen “Turk” Burke will discuss their work with The Spinners, and R&B vocalist Debbie Nelson will share her memories of growing up on the Avenue.
Best of 2023 - Part 1
January 7, 2024
This week on Echoes of Indiana Avenue we’ll look back at some of our favorite music and interviews of 2023. Tune in for words and music from Phil Ranelin, George Chandler, Claudia Polley, and more.
New Year's Eve Dance Party
December 31, 2023
It's a New Year’s Eve dance party on Echoes of Indiana Avenue with classic dance music from Naptown funk and soul artists. We’ll also revisit local dance crazes like the “Hum-Bug” and “Funky 16 Corners.”
Christmas at the Pink Poodle
December 24, 2023
This week on Echoes of Indiana Avenue we’ll celebrate Christmas at the Pink Poodle, a legendary Avenue nightclub. The club featured the biggest stars in jazz, comedy, and R&B music – including Aretha Franklin, Redd Foxx, Moms Mabley, Max Roach, Etta James, and many others.
Midnight Christmas Shows at the Walker
December 17, 2023
This week on Echoes of Avenue learn about the history of Indianapolis Recorder’s midnight Christmas benefit concerts at the Walker Theatre.
The Avenue promoter Matthew Dickerson
December 10, 2023
A tribute to Matthew Dickerson, an influential music promoter who lived and worked in the Avenue neighborhood. During his long career, Dickerson brought the biggest stars in jazz and R&B music to Naptown — including Duke Ellington, Louis Armstrong, Ella Fitzgerald, Fats Waller, James Brown, and many more.
George Chandler - from Haughville to London
December 3, 2023
Vocalist George Chandler shares his memories of performing in Haughville and his rise to fame in Europe.
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